Have a Greek Evening: Where To Try True Greek Food In Dubai

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by Sophie She

Have a Greek Evening: Where To Try True Greek Food In Dubai

12 Aug 2024

You live in Dubai and want something Greek for dinner? We can imagine, because we truly love Greek cuisine too. Here is your list of amazing spots where you can find this food.

Mythos

For me, Mythos remains unrivalled as the top Greek restaurant in Dubai.

Offering two concepts with slightly different menus — you will never be bored with this gastro brand. For exceptional Greek cuisine skillfully prepared at a reasonable price, this is the place to go.

The new space is on City Walk, where you can find the Urban Greek Eatery, so slightly more modern recipes. The original restaurant is located in JLT and definitely holds a special place in our hearts with its cute sea-inspired interiors.

When you are in any of those two branches, here is what you should order to have a proper Greek table, complimentary to your main dishes — Spanakopita (feta & spinach pie), Cheese Saganaki (cheese in a signature tomato sauce), Keftedakia (hearty meatballs with veggies), Tzatziki (just order it, it is a blessing), Taramosalata (fish dip, this author craves on a daily basis), Mousaka (essentially, Greek lasagna) and the one and only proper Horiatiki.

As mains, give a go to Lamb Pilafi (the most tender dish ever) and Chicken Souvlaki.

If you are not that hungry but you are in the mood for a short bite, in the JLT branch, — ask for “gavros” small fried fish. Paired with Horiatiki — it is a go-to dinner with a post-dinner walk by the lake.

Location: C2, City Walk; Cluster P, JLT

Instagram: @mythosdubai

OPA

Location: 1st Level, Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre Area – Dubai (Direct elevator access from the valet)

Literally an escape to another country for a mealtime. This is the most traditional Greek dining experience you will find in the city. There is everything — breaking the plates, loud music, dancing, and lovely people.

Dinners, brunches — OPA is good for anything.

OPA’s summer brunches are definitely a cure to your home-sitting-loneliness, as well as to any post-effect of the night out (if you are picking up what I’m dropping here). Enjoy sharing-style mezes, Fresh Roasted Sea Bass, Grilled Marinated Chicken Souvlaki or lush Seafood Orzo. Conclude your perfect brunch with frozen yoghurt and love your life.

For dinners please order as many mezes as you like, and don’t forget the signature tuna tartare, and sea bream carpaccio. Mousaka is always a great choice for mains and remember that OPA’s experience is more than food, but is about the true Greek interiors and the vibe.

OPA also has some rules, like a proper Greek household — after 10 pm, it is a 21+ place. But mind the dress code — leave your sportswear, flip-flops, and any type of shorts at home.

Instagram: @opadubai

GAIA

Crafted by renowned chef Izu Ani, GAIA is among the most fabulous and famous Greek restaurants in Dubai. GAIA is Greek chic.

This sophisticated eatery features a visually stunning space, perfect for special occasions with its upscale, elegant ambience. The most popular dishes you might want to try is Sea Bream Carpaccio and Modern Mousaka.

Following GAIA's staircase, you'll find NYX, a hidden bar, behind the restaurant’s souvenir shop.

Fabulous and sparkly, if high-end, fancy vibes is your piece of cake — enjoy GAIA at any time of the week!

Location: Gaia Dubai, towards DIFC

Instagram: @gaia__dxb

Kyma Beach

Greek by the pool.

Kyma Beach features not only nice food but also fun Aegean nights every Friday and Saturday from 7 pm onwards.

Proper Horiatiki (Greek Salad) accompanied by icy water is a total life saviour during Dubai’s summer. Situated at The Palm's West Beach, Greek Beach Club is surrounded by lush greenery, this spot promises a peaceful getaway. The exquisite flavours provide a culinary journey reminiscent of the Greek coast, delighting your taste buds.

If you are not in the mood for swimming but you are intrigued by Kyma’s food and style — feel free to enjoy their restaurant at any time of the day. Don’t forget to have a bite of their Octopus Salad, also don’t miss out on Seafood Pasta, although it is traditionally Greek. Oh, and! Have a bite of Galaktoboureko and Greek Yogurt Ice Cream for a desert, and you’ll have the time of your life, guaranteed.

Location: Palm West Beach, opposite Fairmont Hotel

Instagram: @kymabeachdubai

BONUS!

How to: Greek at Home

A vital part of any Greek meal is Tzatziki. And for you to enjoy any meal like a Greek — here is a recipe for this iconic dip.

Ingredients:

Cucumber

Salt

4 to 5 Garlic cloves,

Extra virgin olive oil

Plain Greek Yoghourt

Pepper (white or black)

Chopped fresh dill or mint

Step by step:

— Grate the cucumbers — this author uses a food processor, as in this case, the thinner, the better.

— Drain the grated cucumbers (Very Important). Use a clean cheesecloth (or a heavy napkin) and squeeze out all the liquid.

— In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, a little olive oil and mix.

— Then add the drained cucumber, greek yoghurt, salt, a pinch of pepper, and chopped dill or mint.

— Stir to combine.

— Then refrigerate for 25-30 minutes before serving or serve immediately, but don’t forget to drizzle some olive oil on top!

Enjoy!

by Sophie She